Question
My platelet count is slightly above the normal range with no symptoms. I occasionally donate platelets at the blood bank. Today, I found out that my platelet count is 314 x 10^9, slightly higher than the normal value. I don’t know what the cause is, whether it’s a disease, and what kind of assistance I need. Can the doctor confirm what disease could cause a slightly elevated platelet count and how to treat it?
Answer
A mild elevation in platelet count has little clinical significance; moderate to severe elevations are mainly seen in congenital and acquired Factor VIII deficiencies. When platelet function declines, the platelet count increases compensatorily. After splenectomy, the platelet count in the body also increases. Generally, if only the platelet count is slightly elevated, it is not considered a disease. It may also be a transient enhancement that will naturally recover over time.